The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Albert W. Balvin (ASN: 37341502), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 2 and 12 February 1945. On 2 February Sergeant Balvin, while participating in a general attack on a strongpoint which blocked our entrance to Plaridel, led his squad to the pillbox, and, although painfully wounded, killed some of the occupants and forced the remainder to withdraw. On 12 February his squad again attacked a pillbox and Sergeant Balvin, devoid of cover, stood erect, fired into its embrasure, drew fire upon himself while his rocket crew demolished the fortified position. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.